Monthly Archives: June 2025

CISA Lays Off Nearly One-Third of Workforce 

In a significant and concerning development, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has experienced a dramatic reduction in its workforce. Nearly one-third of CISA’s employees have departed since the beginning of the second Trump administration, marking a critical moment for the nation’s top cybersecurity agency.

Expedited Exits

The workforce reduction has seen approximately 1,000 employees leave CISA, reducing the agency’s total workforce from 3,732 to around 2,649. This reduction has been driven by a combination of buyouts, early retirements, and layoffs. The Trump administration’s proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year suggested cutting CISA’s workforce by 1,083 positions, but the agency has already reached these numbers.

Nation’s Infrastructure At Risk?

The reduction in workforce raises significant concerns about the agency’s ability to protect the nation’s critical infrastructure. CISA plays a crucial role in safeguarding power grids, water utilities, and election systems from cyber threats. With a smaller team, the agency may struggle to provide the necessary support and defense against increasing cyber threats.

Leadership Void

The workforce reduction has affected several of CISA’s most visible and impactful initiatives. Virtually all of CISA’s senior officials have now left, including Lauren Zabierek and Bob Lord, who oversaw the “Secure by Design” initiative, and Matt Hartman, the No. 2 official in CISA’s cybersecurity division. Members of CISA’s international partnerships and engagement division have also departed, further impacting the agency’s capabilities.

Sean Plankey, the nominee for CISA director, faces the prospect of leading an agency that’s lost one-third of its workforce in just a few months. Plankey is likely to face questions about the deep workforce reductions and low morale at CISA. One current CISA employee said, “Approximately 1,000 staff have either been placed on administrative leave or have resigned from the agency. The reductions represent about one-third of CISA’s workforce.”

A former CISA employee who recently retired said, “Dozens of agency employees turned in their badges, laptops, and other equipment last Friday, the deadline for employees who took one of the most recent buyout offers. It was like an assembly line.”

Uncertain Future

The future of CISA remains uncertain as the agency navigates these significant changes. Sean Plankey is expected to testify before the Senate Homeland Security Committee to address questions about the workforce cuts. The agency has already started appointing new officials to senior roles, but the impact of these changes on CISA’s effectiveness remains to be seen.

The reduction in CISA’s workforce is a critical development that could have far-reaching implications for the nation’s cybersecurity. As cyber threats continue to evolve and increase, the need for a robust and well-equipped cybersecurity agency is more important than ever.

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Apple Unveils Groundbreaking Technologies at WWDC

Apple’s WWDC 2025: What It Means for Everyday Users and Modern Workforces

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 wasn’t just a showcase for developers, it was a clear signal that Apple is doubling down on user experience, productivity, and AI-powered convenience for everyone. From casual users to professionals in fast-paced industries, the announcements made this year have broad implications for how people live, work, and connect.

A Unified Experience Across Devices

Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” design, rolling out across iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, brings a more fluid, intuitive interface to every Apple device. This redesign enhances visual clarity and interaction, making it easier for users to focus on content and navigate across platforms with consistency and ease.

Whether you’re managing your calendar on a MacBook, responding to messages on your iPhone, or streaming content on Apple TV, the experience now feels more seamless and visually engaging.

Apple Intelligence: AI That Works for You

Apple’s on-device AI, branded as Apple Intelligence, is now deeply integrated into everyday apps. This includes:

• Live Translation: Real-time multilingual communication, ideal for travel, customer service, or global collaboration.
• Smarter Reminders: Automatically generated based on context, helping users stay organized without manual input.
• Enhanced Wallet: AI-driven security and transaction insights for safer, more efficient payments.

These features are designed to simplify daily tasks, reduce friction, and make technology feel more like a helpful partner than a tool.

iPadOS 26: A Leap in Mobile Productivity

The new “Windows” feature in iPadOS 26 allows users to resize, move, and tile apps, bringing desktop-style multitasking to the iPad. This is a game-changer for mobile professionals, students, and creatives who rely on flexibility without sacrificing performance.

Whether you’re editing documents, attending virtual meetings, or managing multiple workflows, the iPad now offers a more powerful and adaptable workspace.

Visual Search and Wellness Tools

Apple’s new Visual Search lets users snap a photo and instantly get information, perfect for identifying products, translating signs, or researching on the go. Meanwhile, the Workout Assistant on Apple Watch offers personalized fitness tracking, which supports healthier lifestyles and can be integrated into corporate wellness programs.

Gaming, Messaging, and More

Apple also introduced a dedicated mobile gaming app that centralizes gaming experiences and social features. AI enhancements in Messages make conversations more dynamic, while smarter Wallet features improve both convenience and security.

Why It Matters

These updates reflect a broader shift in how technology supports modern life. Apple is not just building tools for developers—it’s creating ecosystems that empower individuals, teams, and organizations to be more productive, connected, and secure.

From AI that anticipates your needs to interfaces that reduce cognitive load, WWDC 2025’s announcements are poised to influence how people interact with technology in meaningful ways, at home, at work, and everywhere in between.

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Nerve-Wracking Facts: The Mystery of the Quantum Internet

In this month’s edition of Nevtec’s Nerve-Wracking Facts, we explore the fascinating and somewhat unsettling world of quantum internet technology. While the concept of a quantum internet might sound like science fiction, researchers are making significant strides toward making it a reality. This revolutionary technology promises unparalleled security and speed, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and mysteries.

The Quantum Internet: A New Frontier

The quantum internet is an emerging technology that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to transmit information. Unlike classical internet, which uses bits to represent data as 0s and 1s, the quantum internet uses quantum bits, or qubits. Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to a phenomenon known as superposition. This allows for the transmission of information at speeds and security levels that are currently unimaginable with classical internet.

Unbreakable Security

One of the most promising aspects of the quantum internet is its potential for unbreakable security. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a method that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to securely exchange encryption keys. Any attempt to eavesdrop on the key exchange would disturb the quantum state of the qubits, alerting the communicating parties to the presence of an intruder. This makes QKD theoretically immune to all forms of hacking, providing a level of security that is unattainable with classical encryption methods.

The Challenges Ahead

Despite its potential, the development of a quantum internet faces significant challenges. One of the primary obstacles is the issue of quantum decoherence. Qubits are extremely sensitive to their environment, and any interaction with external factors can cause them to lose their quantum state, a process known as decoherence. This makes it difficult to maintain the integrity of quantum information over long distances.

Another challenge is the need for quantum repeaters. In classical internet, repeaters are used to amplify signals over long distances. However, quantum signals cannot be amplified in the same way. Instead, quantum repeaters, which are still in the experimental stage, are needed to extend the range of quantum communication.

The Future of Quantum Internet

Researchers around the world are working tirelessly to overcome these challenges. In recent years, there have been significant breakthroughs, such as the successful transmission of quantum information over hundreds of kilometers using fiber optics and satellite links. These advancements bring us closer to the realization of a global quantum internet.

The potential applications of a quantum internet are vast. It could revolutionize fields such as secure communications, financial transactions, and even quantum computing. However, the full implications of this technology are still unknown, and its development will undoubtedly raise new questions and challenges.

A New Frontier

The quantum internet represents a new frontier in technology, offering unprecedented security and speed. While there are significant challenges to overcome, the progress made so far is promising. As researchers continue to unlock the mysteries of quantum mechanics, the dream of a quantum internet moves closer to reality. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting and nerve-wracking journey into the future of technology.

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Victoria’s Secret Security Incident Forces Shut Down

In a recent and alarming development, Victoria’s Secret, the renowned lingerie giant, experienced a significant security incident that forced the company to shut down its IT systems. This incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks and the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. Here’s a detailed look at what happened, the potential impact, and how you can protect your business from similar attacks.

The Incident: What Happened?

Victoria’s Secret was forced to pull down its website and some in-store services as a precaution after experiencing a prolonged security incident. The company activated its cyber incident protocols, including proactively shutting down some systems and hiring third-party cybersecurity experts to address the issue. The incident caused significant disruptions, with customers unable to place orders or track their purchases for several days.

The lingerie giant operates about 1,350 retail stores across 70 countries and reported over $6 billion in revenue in 2024. The security incident led to a 10% drop in Victoria’s Secret’s shares due to the uncertainty and operational disruptions. 

Potential Impact of the Attack

The security incident at Victoria’s Secret is part of a broader trend of cyberattacks targeting major retailers. Similar incidents have affected other retail giants like Marks & Spencer, Harrods, and Adidas, potentially leaking customer data and causing significant financial losses.

The disruption caused by such attacks can extend for weeks, affecting customer trust and business operations.

Tips to Protect Your Business from Cyberattacks

To safeguard your business from similar security incidents, consider implementing the following measures:

1. Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities in your IT systems. This proactive approach can help prevent potential breaches.
2. Employee Training: Educate your employees about cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts and using strong, unique passwords. Human error is often a significant factor in security breaches.
3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA to add an extra layer of security to your systems. This makes it more difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access.
4. Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data to protect it from being accessed or stolen during a breach. Even if attackers gain access to your data, encryption can render it useless to them.
5. Incident Response Plan: Develop and regularly update an incident response plan. This plan should outline the steps to take in the event of a breach to ensure a swift and effective response.
6. Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data and ensure that backups are stored securely. This can help you recover quickly in the event of a ransomware attack or other data loss incidents.

How Nevtec Can Help

At Nevtec, we understand the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape. Our team of experts has extensive experience in protecting businesses from cyber threats and ensuring their IT systems remain secure and operational. Here’s how we can help:

• Comprehensive Security Assessments: We conduct thorough security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and provide tailored recommendations to strengthen your defenses.
• Proactive Monitoring: Our proactive monitoring services ensure that potential threats are detected and addressed before they can cause harm.
• Employee Training Programs: We offer training programs to educate your staff on cybersecurity best practices and reduce the risk of human error.
• Incident Response Planning: We help you develop and implement an effective incident response plan to minimize the impact of any security breaches.
• Data Encryption and Backup Solutions: Our data encryption and backup solutions ensure that your sensitive information is protected and can be quickly restored if needed.

What You Should Do

The security incident at Victoria’s Secret serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and partnering with experienced IT professionals like Nevtec, you can protect your business from similar incidents and ensure your operations remain secure and resilient.

CONTACT US today to schedule your complimentary cybersecurity assessment and learn how we can help safeguard your business from cyber threats.

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Employee Spotlight: Meet Melanie Padgett – Help Desk Extraordinaire

This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who keeps our tech running smoothly and our spirits high—Melanie Padgett! As a key member of our Help Desk team, Melanie brings a unique blend of technical know-how, empathy, and a passion for problem-solving to everything she does.

From Admin to IT Pro: A Journey Fueled by Curiosity

Melanie’s path into IT wasn’t exactly traditional—but it was certainly meant to be. While working as an admin at a staffing company, she found herself stepping in to help coworkers with their tech issues. “I grew up in a household of techs,” she says, “so I’ve always been very familiar with computers.” Her initiative didn’t go unnoticed. The IT manager offered her a spot on the team, and the rest is history. After several years of hands-on learning, she made a career pivot during COVID and found her way to Nevtec.

What She Does: Tech Support with a Personal Touch

In her current role, Melanie provides Help Desk support to our customers, specializing in multi-factor authentication (MFA) and email filtering setups. But her impact goes far beyond technical fixes. “I like when someone comes to me for help, and I’m able to make their day better,” she says. Whether it’s a broken keyboard or a tricky login issue, Melanie is there to ensure everyone can work efficiently—and with a smile.

What She Loves Most: Making a Difference

“It’s a little sappy,” Melanie admits, “but I enjoy fixing people’s problems.” She understands how frustrating tech issues can be and takes pride in restoring calm and productivity. She also enjoys sharing helpful tech tips during calls, turning every support interaction into a learning opportunity.

Beyond the Screen: Gamer, Chef, and Dog Mom

When she’s not solving tech puzzles, Melanie is likely immersed in a different kind of challenge—competitive gaming. She plays World of Warcraft at a high level and even teaches others how to improve their gameplay. She and her husband are avid gamers and love spending time with their dog, Kali. Melanie also enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, especially with savory dishes (though she admits baking’s strict rules aren’t quite her style).

A Few of Her Favorite Things

• Childhood Dream Job: Archaeologist (she even studied Anthropology!)
• Favorite Superhero: Storm
• Favorite Book: Swan Song by Robert R. McCammon
• Favorite Movie: The Mummy Returns
• Favorite Food: Sushi (especially tuna) and street tacos—her Friday treat!
• Favorite Vacation Spot: Xcaret, Mexico
• Binge-Worthy Series: Stargate SG1—“Peak TV,” she says.

Who Inspires Her Most

Melanie’s biggest inspiration is her mom. “She’s very resilient,” Melanie shares, “and even when things are difficult, she remains kind and helpful to others. I think that’s a beautiful trait.”

Melanie, thank you for being such a vital part of the Nevtec team. Your dedication, warmth, and tech savvy make a difference every day!

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Step-by-Step Guide: Going from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Successfully

Upgrading your operating system doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right plan and the right IT partner, you can make the move to Windows 11 smooth and stress-free. As businesses worldwide prepare to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, it’s crucial to have a clear and effective strategy in place. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure a successful upgrade.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Confirm Compatibility The first step in your upgrade journey is to confirm that your current devices meet Windows 11’s requirements. Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to assess compatibility. Many older machines may not meet the new standards, so it’s important to plan your hardware upgrades accordingly.

Back Up Your Data Before you proceed with the upgrade, back up all your data. Whether you use cloud storage or external drives, this step is critical for business continuity. Ensuring that your data is safe will prevent any potential loss during the transition.

Build a Strategy Start with a pilot group. Test the upgrade on a few machines to identify and resolve any issues. This approach allows you to refine your process and build a comprehensive rollout plan that fits your business needs.

Train Your Team Windows 11 features a new interface that may require some adjustment. Providing training for your staff will help them adapt quickly and take full advantage of the new features. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth transition.

Get Expert IT Support Don’t go it alone. Partner with a trusted IT support company like Nevtec to handle the heavy lifting. We offer same-day and next-day desktop support to keep your team productive and minimize downtime.

Potential Challenges During the Upgrade

Upgrading to a new operating system can present several challenges, especially if you do not use an experienced Microsoft partner like Nevtec. Many companies have experienced extended downtime, lost productivity, and unhappy employees from difficult upgrades. Without expert guidance, you may encounter compatibility issues, data loss, and prolonged disruptions to your business operations. Partnering with a reliable IT support company can help you navigate these challenges and ensure a seamless transition.

Predicted Price Increase and Supply Issues

Economic uncertainty, tariff increases, and the global rush to replace over 700 million Windows 10 PCs are contributing to predicted price increases and supply shortages. As businesses worldwide upgrade their systems, the demand for new hardware is skyrocketing. This surge, combined with rising tariffs, is driving up costs and affecting availability. By planning your upgrade now, you can mitigate these risks and ensure a smoother transition.

The Time is Now

Upgrading to Windows 11 is a significant step that requires careful planning and execution. By following this step-by-step guide and partnering with a reliable IT support company like Nevtec, you can make the transition seamless and stress-free. Don’t wait—contact Nevtec today for expert IT support and a complimentary upgrade assessment. Act now to protect your business, data, and future.

CONTACT US to schedule your complimentary upgrade assessment today.

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The Benefits of Hyperconverged Infrastructure for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

More than ever, small and mid-sized businesses need to stay agile and efficient to remain competitive. One way to achieve this is by adopting hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI), a technology that combines compute, storage, networking, and virtualization into a single, software-defined platform.

In this article, we’ll explore the key benefits of HCI and why it’s an ideal solution for your business. In light of Broadcom’s VMWare drastic price increases and subscription changes, considering HCI may be more important than ever before.

1. Lower Total Cost of Ownership: One of the most significant advantages of HCI is its lower total cost of ownership (TCO). By consolidating multiple IT components into a single platform, HCI eliminates the need for expensive hardware and software silos. This not only reduces capital expenditures but also lowers ongoing operational costs. Companies like Scale Computing offer HCI solutions that are particularly cost-effective for small and mid-sized businesses, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Scale Computing, as the industry-leading VMware alternative you can reduce downtime by up to 90% and reduce your Total Cost of Ownership by 40%.
2. Simplified Management:  HCI platforms are designed with centralized management interfaces, making it easier for IT teams to manage infrastructure. With a unified solution, administrators can monitor and control all aspects of the IT environment from a single pane of glass, reducing complexity and improving efficiency. Scale Computing’s HCI solutions are known for their user-friendly management interfaces, which simplify the process even further.
3. Improved Scalability: As your business grows, so do your IT needs. HCI offers a scalable solution that allows you to add capacity as needed without overbuying today. This flexibility ensures that your IT infrastructure can grow with your business, providing the resources you need when you need them. HCI solutions are designed to scale seamlessly, allowing you to expand your infrastructure effortlessly as your business evolves.
4. Enhanced Resilience: Downtime can be costly for any business. HCI platforms are built with redundancy and failover capabilities, ensuring that your IT environment remains operational even in the event of hardware failures. This built-in resilience minimizes disruptions and keeps your business running smoothly. HCI solutions are engineered with robust failover mechanisms, providing peace of mind that your operations will continue uninterrupted.
5. Enhanced Security: Security is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. HCI solutions often come with built-in security features that protect your data and applications. Scale Computing’s HCI platforms include advanced security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular updates to safeguard your IT environment against threats.
6. Streamlined IT Operations: By integrating compute, storage, networking, and virtualization into a single platform, HCI streamlines IT operations. This integration reduces the need for multiple management tools and simplifies troubleshooting, allowing your IT team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance. HCI solutions are designed to streamline operations, making it easier for your team to manage and maintain your IT infrastructure.

For companies looking to stay competitive in a rapidly changing IT landscape, hyperconverged infrastructure offers a cost-effective, scalable, and resilient solution. By adopting HCI, you can simplify management, reduce costs, and ensure that your IT infrastructure can grow with your business.

Discover the Benefits of Hyperconvergence at Our Exclusive Golf Outing!

Join us for an unforgettable day of golf simulation, networking, and innovation at the Golf Galaxy Event!

Date: Thursday August 12, 2025, from 11 am – 3 pm
Location: Golf Galaxy 4070 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

Why Attend?

In today’s fast-paced business environment, small and mid-sized businesses need to stay agile and efficient to remain competitive. If you are stuck in VMware and need a way out. One way to achieve this is by adopting hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI), a technology that combines compute, storage, networking, and virtualization into a single, software-defined platform. Don’t let VMware hold you back. Hit a hole in one with Scale!

Event Highlights:

• Golf and Networking: Come and enjoy the golf simulation bay while getting pointers from a Golf Pro. Connect with industry peers and build valuable relationships in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
  • Free Club Fitting ($100 value) for those who bring or invite a new company interested in Nevtec
  • Contest for a round of golf at Spanish Bay, a new driver, club fittings, and more
  • Lunch included and drinks included.
• Meet the Experts: Network with the Nevtec and Scale Computing teams. Get personalized insights and answers to your questions about HCI and its benefits for your business.
• Exclusive Scale Computing Demo: Witness firsthand how Scale Computing’s HCI solutions can transform your IT infrastructure. Learn how you can reduce downtime by up to 90% and lower your Total Cost of Ownership by 40%.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the benefits of HCI and see how Scale Computing can help your business thrive.

Register now to secure your spot at the Golf Galaxy Event!

https://www.nevtec.com/event-registration-golfgalaxy/

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